Heart of Midlothian's season ended in agony as they lost the title to Celtic on the final day. Derek McInnes, the club's former manager, has now spoken out about the silence from himself and the club following the defeat. McInnes, 54, issued a 475-word statement through the Heart of Midlothian Standard website, expressing his understanding of the fans' frustration. He said it's such a special football club and they had a brilliant season together. McInnes thanked the players and staff, saying he's spoken to every single one of them over the last few days and wishes them well. He also thanked the board, particularly Calum Paterson, and Graeme Jones for a strong working relationship. The Heart of Midlothian support was also praised by McInnes, who felt like one of them. He wished he'd got to Heart of Midlothian sooner and that his time at the club was more than 12 months. McInnes led the team to a record points total, Champions League qualification, and three derby wins. Unfortunately, the team didn't get what they deserved in the end, with two late goals turning the match and title in Celtic's favour. McInnes was angry and devastated at how it all played out for them after putting so much effort in. The decisions that had a huge impact on the outcome were hard to take. McInnes believes they achieved their goal of making Heart of Midlothian a team that resonated with the supporters and a team that fans were excited to watch on a Saturday. He felt Tynecastle Park was even more special than it normally is and had that feeling every time he walked out the tunnel and into the home dugout. An unbeaten home record was a brilliant achievement. McInnes' departure to Rangers has been confirmed, and he will be taking on a new challenge. But for now, he's focused on thanking the Heart of Midlothian fans and staff for their support. And he's wishing the club all the best for the future. So the search for a new manager begins, with the club looking to build on the success of the past season. The Heart of Midlothian fans will be hoping for a similar level of success in the upcoming season.